(WWJ) - Drivers along M-59 in Macomb and Oakland counties may want to stay off their phones today.
Local police departments are starting to crack down on distracted driving as a part of "Operation Ghost Rider." The operation, which starts Thursday, is in recognition of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a reminder to drivers to keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
Police in unmarked spotter vehicles will be zeroing in on drivers who are using a phone or other handheld device behind the wheel. Once spotted, officers will radio ahead to a marked patrol car, which will make a traffic stop.
Officers are targeting a stretch of M-59 from I-75 to I-94 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday.
Last year, officers stopped 530 vehicles, issued 440 citations and made nine arrests over a six-hour period.
Participating agencies include the Auburn Hills Police Department, Chesterfield Township Police Department, Clinton Township Police Department, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, Shelby Township Police Department, Sterling Heights Police Department and Utica Police Department.